One other thing to consider before you get started on your character for an RPG or PBBG is to add elements or twists to your character that not only allows them to be unique but that will give you a chance to grow as you play the game. If you try to start off already mastering every weapon or skill out there and attempting to be so powerful that no one can challenge you then you cut off your characters ability to be active and grow within the game, not to mention you run the risk of god-modding (playing as an untouchable character) and alienating other players who see no point in interacting with a character that has no potential to grow.
To give you an idea of some of the things that a specific GM may be looking for when you create your RPG charact
er check out this screen shot. It is an example of a RPG that has a certain format required for a character application:
Name:
Obviously, one of your first steps is to create a name for your RPG character. Choose one that works well for your game world but is original. If someone is already playing with the name John Smith, creating a character that is John_Smith could be confusing for a lot of people. Also using a name like 'I'm Bored' is a good way to make sure that you stay bored because very few people will take your seriously and will probably use you for target practice.
If you need help finding a name then try using some of the baby name sites out there. They can be a great resource for finding a good RPG character name. Also, there are a few automatic name generators that can help you choose an RPG character name appropriate for the genre in which you are playing. Here are a few good ones to try:
Seventh Sanctum
Random Name Generator
Baby Names
Baby Names World
A Note About Gender:
While some players do, from time to time, play a character of the opposite gender, when creating original characters this is often rather taboo among many in the RPG world. Due to the high levels of interaction, particular with RPG's that include social elements such as unions/marriages, most players will not react favorably if they learn that you are not the gender that you claim to be. And, since playing as your own gender gives your character a more personal depth it often keeps your actions more true to the nature of your character so it is best to always play as your real gender.
Age and Date of Birth:
Often you will want to just use the age of your character and not a date of birth unless it fits well into the game world and the aging process would not create a problem. For example, if you are playing a vampire you may want to have an actual year of birth where as if you are creating a character with an average lifespan you may simply wish to state a given age.